Sergio Martinez: Canelo Made Smart Business Move With GGG

By Victor Salazar

Brooklyn, New York- The last time the WBC middleweight championship of the world was defended at a 160-pounds, the man who held the title was Sergio Martinez. Since he lost the lineal title to Miguel Cotto in 2014, the belt has not been defended at the full division limit of 160.

Cotto lost the title to Canelo Alvarez last November who also defended the title at a catch-weight. Canelo was due in line to fight Gennady Golovkin in mandatory defense, but instead Canelo dropped the WBC belt and then lineal title when he chose to make his return to the 154 pound division. He is scheduled to fight Liam Smith for the WBO 154 pound title in September.

Martinez feels Canelo made the right move in dropping the title.

"It was a smart business decision for Canelo," Martinez told BoxingScene.com. "I don't think it would be smart to be put in a position as the bigger draw to give up so much. I think the fight happens later."

Martinez also does not fault Canelo and says it is more of the business of boxing then him actually not wanting to fight Golovkin.

"I don't think it was up to Canelo, I think it was more of the politics and the sport involved," Martinez said.

The former champion of 160 has no doubt as to who runs the division now stating, "Golovkin is the best middleweight in the world, no question."

Martinez was on hand to give Lou Dibella an award at the annual Boxing Writers Award ceremony in New York. It was one of Martinez' happiest moments.

"I was very happy to give something back to Lou as he gave me an opportunity and I won an award as fighter of the year so it was good to give back to Lou."